The shocking killing of two New Jersey teens began unfolding online days before a deadly crash that took their lives.

Seventeen-year-old Vincent P. Battiloro has been charged with two counts of first-degree murder after authorities say he deliberately used his car to fatally strike Maria Niotis and Isabella Salas as they rode an e-bike in Cranford, with disturbing online posts revealing his obsession with one of the victims, as the New York Post reports.

Just two days before police say Battiloro carried out the fatal crash, he streamed a video on YouTube detailing what he called a “vengeance” against 17-year-old Maria Niotis. In the video recorded on Sept. 23, Battiloro accused Maria and her mother of falsely reporting him for sending inappropriate material to her, which he claimed led to problems at school and with authorities. In a moment captured on the livestream, he said he would “call a pizza to her house,” clearly referencing his intent to harass her family further.

During that same stream, Battiloro prank-called a Domino’s Pizza location using a burner phone and sent an unwanted food order to Maria’s address. He and another unnamed teen were heard laughing during and after the call. Minutes later, Battiloro openly discussed the idea of going to her home to watch the delivery, a thought that alarmingly demonstrated his intent to escalate the harassment.

Stalking admission emerges

In the video, Battiloro admitted that he had previously gone to Maria’s home uninvited and stood outside. He acknowledged that her mother caught him in the act, and that police had become involved, although no official charges were filed at the time. “I got tracked,” he said, giving viewers a glimpse into what officials now believe was a prolonged pattern of stalking.

Family and friends of Maria later confirmed that Battiloro had been seen sitting outside her home multiple times in the months leading up to the fatal crash. Authorities believe this behavior formed part of a wider pattern of obsession and harassment directed largely at Maria. The crash that ended her life and that of Isabella Salas occurred just one day later, on what investigators called a “premeditated attack.”

On the evening of the incident, the two teenage girls were riding their e-bike through Cranford when Battiloro allegedly used his vehicle to deliberately hit them. Following the crash, he was taken into custody and questioned by police, but was then released as the investigation developed. He continued to post online following the tragedy.

Return to YouTube

In a shocking twist, Battiloro returned to YouTube on Sept. 24 -- just one day after the crash -- and made a defensive video denying “allegations” made against him, without specifying what they were. In the stream, he positioned himself as someone unjustly targeted by classmates, painting himself as a misunderstood and isolated teen. His comments came as authorities were working to process the crash scene and piece together what led up to the deadly event.

Further reflection on Battiloro’s online behavior reveals that his fixation on Maria stretched back months. In a livestream recorded on May 13, he referenced prior school-related incidents involving “questionable chats.” He did not offer details but hinted at disciplinary action schools had considered following concerns raised about his behavior. At the time, the matter appeared unresolved.

By June, Battiloro posted a now-deleted video declaring that his school-related case had been dropped. He claimed the absence of charges proved he had done nothing wrong. “I’m basically cleared of any wrongdoing,” he stated confidently in the video, and suggested his return to school reflected his supposed innocence in the situation.

Murder charges lodged

That confidence gave way to formal charges after investigators presented their findings to prosecutors. On the Wednesday following the crash, Battiloro was charged with two counts of first-degree murder related to the deaths of Niotis and Salas. The Union County Prosecutor’s Office is overseeing the case, with the Cranford Police Department referring all inquiries their way.

The possibility remains that Battiloro, despite being 17, may be tried as an adult depending on the court’s decision. The gravity and premeditation allegedly involved in the crimes have intensified calls for a harsher legal path. As of publication, Battiloro remains in juvenile detention while legal proceedings progress.

Lessons to learn

This disturbing case offers several reminders for parents, teens, and the wider public about spotting and responding to signs of danger.

1. Stalking behavior should never be dismissed. While Battiloro’s actions -- such as sitting outside Maria’s home and prank-calling her -- may have seemed minor at first, they reflected a much darker obsession. Early detection and legal follow-up on stalking behaviors are crucial in preventing larger tragedies.

2. Online confessions can be a cry for help -- or a warning sign. The disturbing livestreams posted by the accused ahead of the fatal crash included self-incriminating remarks and veiled threats. Parents and school officials must take online posts seriously and intervene when troubling content appears.

3. Even with preventive measures, anyone can become a victim. While education, reporting, and vigilance are key, the sad reality is that crime can touch any family. We must prioritize supporting victims rather than assigning blame for their tragic outcomes.

Why this story matters

This tragedy reflects the devastating consequences of unchecked obsession, digital harassment, and insufficient early intervention. Teen conflict, when ignored, can escalate into life-shattering violence -- especially when compounded by online platforms.

Maria Niotis and Isabella Salas’ deaths are a sobering reminder for communities to foster environments where teen concerns are heard and addressed, not dismissed. Awareness, accountability, and community-wide attention to red flags could make the difference in saving lives.